Category: Uncategorized

  • Osaka in One Day: Kiyomizu-dera & Fushimi Inari

    Osaka in One Day: Kiyomizu-dera & Fushimi Inari

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet up @Hotel Hankyu Respire
    • 10:50-11:50@Kiyomizu-dera
    • Via Ninenzaka, Yasaka Pagoda, Yasaka Koshin-do
    • 12:40-13:50@Nishiki Market
    • 14:40-15:30@Eikan-do
    • 16:40-17:10@Fushimi Inari
    • 18:00 Disband@Osaka Station

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from the Middle East, traveling in Japan for a memorable trip. Because they had a wide range of places they wished to visit, I created three plans based on their requests, and they chose the itinerary for this tour. Dining in Kyoto can be tricky since preferences vary from guest to guest, but during the plan selection process I learned that they were looking forward to sampling food at Nishiki Market, which was very helpful. I was concerned that the buses to Kiyomizu-dera are crowded all day and can take time to reach, but along the approach the guests also enjoyed some "extras" such as shopping for souvenirs, tasting "Otabe" sweets, seeing Yasaka Pagoda, and visiting Yasaka Koshindo, which put me at ease.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto Station~Gojozaka1,100JPY
    Section 2TrainKiyomizu-michi~Shijo Kawaramachi0JPY
    Section 3TrainShijo Takakura~Nanzenji, Eikando-michi0JPY
    Section 4TrainKeage~Kyoto0JPY
    Section 5TrainKyoto~Inari150JPY
    Section 6TrainInari~Osaka860JPY
    Total2,110JPY

    I’m Sahiko Ogura, Sachiko literally means ‘happy child’, please call me Sachiko or Sachi for short. I was born and raised in Osaka. I’ve been guide for 6 years mainly in Osaka, Kyoto and Nara after having worked far trading company. I love traveling and visited about 30 countries, where I had a great time and experienced something new and exciting. I also like sports, tea ceremony and gardening, I’m growing veritable and flower in my garden. Please let me know your interest and anything what you would like to do during your tour. I’m happy to make an itinerary customized for you.
    I’m looking forward to meeting you and exploring in my home town!

    Sep 26, 2026
    Y
    yolanda552
    Sachiko the best tour guide
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Sachiko was our tour guide…

    Sep 9, 2026
    peteraI5718XP
    My First Visit to Osaka
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    I enjoyed seeing Osaka through Sachiko’s…

    Sep 4, 2026
    S
    satchithh
    Hasabnis family
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Sachiko or Choko Ogura is a…

    Aug 3, 2026
    G6602NEeduardoa
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Osaka Tour with Sachiko
    We had a great Osaka…

  • Private Vehicle for Booked Guided Tours (8 hours)

    Private Vehicle for Booked Guided Tours (8 hours)

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at hotel 9:10 Departure 10:10 Todaiji Temple 10:50 Nara Park Playing with deer 11:15 Kasuga Taisha Shrine 12:20 Lunch (Shikamaru) 13:20 Naramachi Nigiwai no Ie, Karakuri Toy Museum 14:30 Shopping 15:10 Departure from Nara (the children look tired) 16:00 Arrival at hotel

    What Is a Private Nara Day Tour with Kids Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America, traveling together with another group. They used two private vehicles, with each group riding separately. The children were fairly quiet overall, but at places like Todai-ji Temple, they kindly asked questions on their own, which was wonderful. The rain that had been falling since morning continued until we entered Todai-ji Temple, but after leaving Todai-ji it stopped, and no more rain fell afterward, so we were able to spend a comfortable time. Thanks to that, the interaction with the deer, which I had been worried about, went very well. The whole group shared the deer crackers among themselves and seemed to enjoy it very much. After Kasuga Taisha Shrine, we had lunch and headed to Naramachi. In Naramachi, we visited the "Nigiwai no Ie" and the "Karakuri Toy Museum." The Toy Museum was the highlight of the day for the children. They played with more than ten kinds of traditional old-fashioned toys. One of the guests said they would love to buy such toys if they were sold somewhere. After that, since the children became tired, we decided to return to the Hotel an hour earlier than planned. When we said goodbye at the Hotel, I received a present from the children, which made me very happy.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherPark Hyatt Kyoto~Park Hyatt Kyoto0JPY
    Total0JPY

    I was born and grew up in Kyoto and now live near Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto. I used to be a schoolteacher of English and welcome a lot of students from foreign countries. I really enjoyed showing them around Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Himeji, and Hiroshima. I have been a professional tour guide for about 8 years. I always try to let my guests learn Japanese traditional and modern culture. Since I was born in Kyoto, I know a lot about its culture and people. I myself enjoyed several sports, such as soccer, judo, and marathon when I was young. I’m much interested in baseball and sumo. My motto as a tour guide is to let my guests learn about our tradition and culture precisely and really enjoy themselves. I strongly hope you will enjoy the tour in Japan with me.

    Sep 28, 2026
    Miguel_E
    Amazing Service
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful time with Kazuo.…

    Sep 27, 2026
    T
    TrailBlazer47194
    Kazuo Sumi is a great guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Our guide Kazuo Sumi…

    Sep 1, 2026
    Steve6172014
    Excellent tour of Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour…

    Aug 7, 2026
    Pascale_Q
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Very good private tour of Kyoto with Kazuo
    We had…

    Area not found: "Others". Use the exact published Area title.

  • Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Customized Tour

    Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Customized Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at hotel 9:10 Departure 10:10 Todai-ji Temple 10:50 Nara Park Play with deer 11:15 Kasuga Taisha Shrine 12:20 Lunch (Shikamaru) 13:20 Naramachi Nigiwai no Ie, Karakuri Toy Museum 14:30 Shopping 15:10 Depart Nara (the children look tired) 16:00 Arrive at hotel

    What Is a Private Nara Day Tour with Kids Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The group visited Japan from North America, traveling together with another family group. Two private vehicles were used, with each family riding separately. The children were fairly quiet throughout the day, but at places like Todai-ji Temple they asked questions on their own, which was wonderful. It had been raining since the morning and continued until we entered Todai-ji, but the rain stopped after we left, and there was no more rain for the rest of the day, so we were able to spend a comfortable time. Thanks to that, we were also able to fully enjoy interacting with the deer, which I had been worried about. Everyone in the group shared the deer crackers and seemed to have a great time. After Kasuga Taisha Shrine, we had lunch and headed to Naramachi. In Naramachi, we visited the "Nigiwai no Ie" and the "Karakuri Toy Museum." The Toy Museum was the highlight of the day for the children. They played with more than a dozen kinds of traditional old-fashioned toys. One of the guests said that if these toys were sold somewhere, they would love to buy them. After that, since the children became tired, we returned to the Hotel one hour earlier than planned. At the Hotel, when we parted, I was delighted to receive a present from the children.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherPark Hyatt Kyoto~Park Hyatt Kyoto0JPY
    Total0JPY

    I was born and grew up in Kyoto and now live near Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto. I used to be a schoolteacher of English and welcome a lot of students from foreign countries. I really enjoyed showing them around Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Himeji, and Hiroshima. I have been a professional tour guide for about 8 years. I always try to let my guests learn Japanese traditional and modern culture. Since I was born in Kyoto, I know a lot about its culture and people. I myself enjoyed several sports, such as soccer, judo, and marathon when I was young. I’m much interested in baseball and sumo. My motto as a tour guide is to let my guests learn about our tradition and culture precisely and really enjoy themselves. I strongly hope you will enjoy the tour in Japan with me.

    Sep 28, 2026
    Miguel_E
    Amazing Service
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful time with Kazuo.…

    Sep 27, 2026
    T
    TrailBlazer47194
    Kazuo Sumi is a great guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Our guide Kazuo Sumi…

    Sep 1, 2026
    Steve6172014
    Excellent tour of Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour…

    Aug 7, 2026
    Pascale_Q
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Very good private tour of Kyoto with Kazuo
    We had…

  • Private Vehicle for Booked Guided Tours (8 hours)

    Private Vehicle for Booked Guided Tours (8 hours)

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at hotel 9:10 Departure 10:10 Todaiji Temple 10:50 Nara Park Playing with deer 11:15 Kasuga Taisha Shrine 12:20 Lunch (Shikamaru) 13:20 Naramachi Nigiwai no Ie, Karakuri Toy Museum 14:30 Shopping 15:10 Departure from Nara (the children look tired) 16:00 Arrival at hotel

    What Is a Private Nara Day Tour with Kids Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America, traveling together with another group. They used two private vehicles, with each group riding separately. The children in the group were fairly quiet, but at places like Todai-ji Temple they asked questions on their own initiative, which was wonderful. The rain that had been falling since the morning continued until we entered Todai-ji Temple, but it stopped after we left, and no further rain fell, so we were able to spend a comfortable day. Thanks to this, the interaction with the deer, which I had been worried about, went very well. The whole group shared the deer crackers among themselves and seemed to have a great time. After Kasuga Taisha Shrine, we had lunch and headed to Naramachi. In Naramachi we visited the "Nigiwai no Ie" and the "Karakuri Omocha Kan" (mechanical toy museum). The toy museum was the highlight of the day for the children. They played with more than ten kinds of traditional old-fashioned toys. One of the guests said they would love to buy toys like these if they were sold somewhere. After that, since the children became tired, we decided to return to the hotel one hour earlier than planned. At the time of parting at the hotel, I received a gift from the children, which made me very happy.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherPark Hyatt Kyoto~Park Hyatt Kyoto0JPY
    Total0JPY

    I was born and grew up in Kyoto and now live near Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto. I used to be a schoolteacher of English and welcome a lot of students from foreign countries. I really enjoyed showing them around Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Himeji, and Hiroshima. I have been a professional tour guide for about 8 years. I always try to let my guests learn Japanese traditional and modern culture. Since I was born in Kyoto, I know a lot about its culture and people. I myself enjoyed several sports, such as soccer, judo, and marathon when I was young. I’m much interested in baseball and sumo. My motto as a tour guide is to let my guests learn about our tradition and culture precisely and really enjoy themselves. I strongly hope you will enjoy the tour in Japan with me.

    Sep 28, 2026
    Miguel_E
    Amazing Service
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful time with Kazuo.…

    Sep 27, 2026
    T
    TrailBlazer47194
    Kazuo Sumi is a great guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Our guide Kazuo Sumi…

    Sep 1, 2026
    Steve6172014
    Excellent tour of Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour…

    Aug 7, 2026
    Pascale_Q
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Very good private tour of Kyoto with Kazuo
    We had…

    Area not found: "Others". Use the exact published Area title.

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • Hotel (Asakusa) to Senso-ji Temple ~ Meiji Shrine ~ Harajuku, Omotesando ~ Shibuya Crossing ~ Don Quijote ~ Shibuya PARCO Pokemon Center

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Tokyo's Asakusa, Meiji Shrine, and Shibuya Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America and Asia. Since the meeting time was 8:00, we started from a hotel about a 10-minute walk from Asakusa and visited Senso-ji Temple. As the shops were not yet open, I guided them from Kaminarimon Gate through Nakamise, then to Hozomon Gate and the Five-Story Pagoda. After that, I showed them the main hall and we strolled around the Senso-ji area, but only a few shops were open, so we moved on to our next destination, Meiji Shrine. At Meiji Shrine, I explained the origins of the shrine, the man-made forest, the achievements of Emperor Meiji, how to pass through the torii gate, how to walk along the approach, and the sake barrels and wine barrels. After explaining the second torii gate, I demonstrated the etiquette at the purification fountain and the Shinto way of worship at the main hall. There also happened to be a wedding taking place, so I explained about it (including the white bridal kimono and the traditional headdress). After taking photos, we had a coffee break in the rest area, and then headed to Harajuku, where they did some shopping. They also shopped at a character goods store on Omotesando before heading to Shibuya. I explained about the Hachiko statue and the scramble crossing, and after that

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainAsakusa~Meiji-jingumae252JPY
    Section 2TrainOmotesando~Shibuya178JPY
    Total430JPY

    Hello, my name is Hajime Shimizu. Please call me Jim.
    I was born in Kobe and spent my university years in Kyoto, a city steeped in history and tradition.
    With a passion for marathon running and photography, I’ve traveled the world capturing its beauty through my lens. What I truly enjoy, however, is welcoming distinguished guests like yourself to Japan, ensuring that your experience is both luxurious and unforgettable.
    I look forward to offering you a curated and bespoke journey through the wonders of Japan.
    See you soon.
    Hajime (Jim) Shimizu

    Jun 27, 2024
    50pdd
    Great experience
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Jim is great tour guide.Explains history,culture and helps to buy…

    Jun 24, 2024
    Venture39971560424
    Our guide Jim created an itinerary around our interests
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    It was a…

    May 27, 2024
    JohnnyBravo777
    Unforgettable Japanese Journey with Jim: A Tour Worth Taking
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Jim proved to…

  • Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour

    Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:35 Meet up @ Hiroshima Station
    • 10:00 Miyajima, Itsukushima Shrine, Omotesando Shopping Street, shopping, lunch @ Kurawanka
    • 14:15 Peace Park, Atomic Bomb Dome, Peace Memorial Museum
    • 16:30 Stop by Hiroshima Castle, photograph the castle from outside the moat
    • 17:00 Tour ends @ Hiroshima Station

    Title: What's a Private Miyajima and Hiroshima Tour Like for Guests Needing Wheelchair Access? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group living in North America who visited Japan and requested slow-paced travel and a chartered car, so before the tour we exchanged many messages via a messaging app to arrange the vehicle and other details. Because a car arranged through [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) was not available on Monday, I introduced a taxi company I knew and chartered a large van, and in addition to the wheelchair the guests brought, I arranged in advance for the taxi company to lend an extra wheelchair as well. While talking in the car, the guests mentioned they wanted to eat okonomiyaki, so as soon as we arrived at Miyajima I was able to book directly at an okonomiyaki restaurant along the way. We returned from Itsukushima Shrine in time for the reservation and everyone lined up in a row in front of the teppan to eat. Watching the food cooked on the teppan is enjoyable, so it seemed to please the guests. After enjoying Miyajima with oysters, local Miyajima beer, momiji manju, and buying a Totoro plush at a shop with Studio Ghibli goods, we headed to the Peace Park. The Peace Park is also large for those with difficulty walking, so we traveled by car as much as possible, moving by car from the Atomic Bomb Dome to the Peace Memorial Museum. On the way back we took photos of Hiroshima Castle from outside the moat and returned to Hiroshima Station to end the tour. They were a very kind group, and I had a wonderful time as well.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherHiroshima Station~Within Hiroshima City ⇔ Within Hatsukaichi City0JPY
    Total0JPY

    As a Hiroshima government-certified English-speaking guide, I’ve led over 160 heartfelt tours for guests from around the world. I craft each experience with care, blending history, humor, and emotional resonance to help you connect deeply with this beautiful city and its stories. I love sharing insights about Hiroshima and Japan, but I also enjoy chatting with my guests as if we were friends, learning about each other along the way and creating meaningful moments together. Every tour becomes a unique exchange, shaped by the people I meet. I look forward to welcoming you and guiding you in Hiroshima.

    Sep 24, 2025
    Paige_M
    Lovely and Educational Tour of Hiroshima
    Viator review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Our guide for this…

    May 8, 2025
    Smatty68
    Tomoyo was a star guide
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We really enjoyed our…

    Apr 29, 2025
    Josh_H
    Amazing experience and very grateful for my tour guide Tomoyo
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed…

    Apr 29, 2025
    Chloe_O
    The best day in Japan with Tomoyo!
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Tomoyo was…

  • Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.13:40 Meet up @Moxy Osaka Shin Umeda
    • 2.14:20 @Osaka Castle
    • 3.16:00 @Ebisubashi-suji
    • 4.16:40 Disband @Dotonbori

    Title: What's a Private Osaka Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Osaka Castle and Dotonbori Because the guests arrived early at the meeting point, we started the tour right after meeting. I introduced some interesting sights unique to Osaka around the Umekita area, which is currently undergoing a construction boom, while making our way to the Tanimachi subway line, guiding the guests through underground shopping arcades along the way. Even though it was a weekday, the guests were surprised at how crowded it was. When we arrived at Osaka Castle and began climbing the stairs, I was informed that one of the guests had trouble with both knees. I suggested taking the elevator up to the 8th floor of the castle tower, but the guests said it would be fine to sit and wait if they got tired. In the end, one of the guests chose to sit and rest on the 5th floor. Meanwhile, the other took many photos of the view from the observation deck and listened attentively to my explanations. On the way down to the 1st floor, the guests showed interest in the exhibits on each floor. They said they liked it so much they could have stayed all day. After that, we made our way slowly to Namba, where I introduced the Ebisubashi-suji shopping street and several restaurants in Dotonbori that are favorites among Osaka locals, before parting ways. The guests looked like they were enjoying themselves right until the end.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHigashi-Umeda~Temmabashi820JPY
    Total820JPY

    Hi! My name is YUKA. I’ve got the government license in 2018 and joined a half year traning to do the guide. But a half year later I started my carreer, Covid came. I should have given up guiding. During the Covid, I’ve read many books and made my own materials to explain Japanese culture, history, etc. I love guiding because the guests expand my horizon all the time and let me know their own country and culture, etc. It is really important for us all to know each other and respect each other to make this world peace. Thank you for coming to Japan! Let’s enjoy Japan together!

    Sep 29, 2026
    duncans746
    Yuka was great
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Yuka was a fantastic guide, knowledgeable,…

    Sep 23, 2026
    navinderp2024
    Great day in Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour…

    Aug 9, 2026
    piperl686
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Honeymoon Tour in Kyoto
    We were so impressed by…

    Aug 5, 2026
    Anita_M
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Great day of sightseeing in Kyoto
    Yuka was a…

  • Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:00 Meet at Hotel Intergate Kyobashi Tokyo
    • 2. 9:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 3. 10:30 Takeshita Street and Omotesando
    • 4. 12:00 Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 5. 13:00 Lunch at Uogashi
    • 6. 14:00 Hamarikyu
    • 7. 15:30 Asakusa Sensoji Temple and Nakamise
    • 8. 16:30 Akihabara
    • 9. 17:00 Disband at Akihabara

    What Can a Private Full-Day Tour of Tokyo Cover? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, Tsukiji, and Asakusa After meeting up, the group was very lively and excited, so instead of transferring to the Chiyoda Line from Kyobashi at Omotesando, we got off at Omotesando and walked for a while toward Meiji Shrine to settle in. At the quiet Meiji Shrine in the morning, I explained Japanese history, the imperial system, and the feudal domain system, and then talked about the enshrined deities. In complete contrast, the group then experienced the subculture of Takeshita Street and seemed fascinated by the novelty of it. At Tsukiji, they had Yonezawa beef shoulder grilled right in front of them and were greatly impressed by the world of wagyu. After enjoying eel and rock oysters, they ate quite a lot at the food court, including soba, ramen, and tempura. To help work off the meal, we walked to Hamarikyu, where I explained the culture of the Edo period. On the way to Asakusa, we got off at Kuramae, and the group was very excited by the Bandai anime character statues and displays. After strolling around Asakusa, we parted ways at Akihabara. The group seemed a bit tired from such a packed and full tour, but they appeared to have enjoyed it.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassKyobashi~Meiji-jingumae900JPY
    Section 2Free PassMeiji-jingumae~Tsukiji0JPY
    Section 3Free PassShiodome~Kuramae0JPY
    Section 4Free PassAsakusa~Suehirocho0JPY
    Total900JPY

    Born and raised in Tokyo a half-century ago, I have lived in Tokyo all my life except for one year in the UK to study for a master’s course. I am a Tokyo Native with viewpoints based on broader local knowledge than anyone else. I have specialised in Japanese history, culture, and architecture since I was an architect.
    Also, I am a foodie emphasising Japanese traditional & healthy foods. I’ve been to many countries around the world, such as the US, Central America, Europe, and Asia. As such, I believe I can anticipate the needs of foreign tourists in Japan.

    Despite my experience as a guide for just two years, we can make the best out of our tour by travelling from your hotel to spots time-efficiently with my local knowledge, while accommodating your unexpected requests during the tour.
    My strong area includes Yanesen; Old Temples in a Quaint Village, Kamakura, Asakusa Sensoji, Meiji Shrine and Imperial Palace. All give you peace of mind.

    Oct 22, 2025
    I5562SWphilipk
    Great intro to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kei was a genial and knowledgeable host, who…

    Oct 12, 2025
    Gary H
    Great tour of Tokyo!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We loved our tour! Our guide was…

    Oct 5, 2025
    C
    Cindy_S
    Had one day in Tokyo and…
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Had one day in Tokyo…

    Sep 15, 2025
    chrishN2970OC
    A highly enjoyable tour of Tokyo with knowledgeable local guide
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:00 Meet at Hilton Tokyo
    • 2. 9:30 Shibuya (Hachiko Statue, Scramble Crossing, Shibuya Sky, Nintendo TOKYO, Konno Hachimangu Shrine)
    • 3. 12:00 Lunch (Pepper PARLOR)
    • 4. 13:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 5. 14:30 Takeshita Street
    • 6. 15:00 Disband at Takeshita Street (Animal Cafe Entrance)

    What's a Private Walking Tour of Shibuya and Harajuku in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America on a trip to Japan, having arrived the day before and planning to visit Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hiroshima over a journey of about ten days. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private walking tour centered on Shibuya, along with Meiji Shrine and Takeshita Street, as the guests had many places they wanted to see in the Shibuya area. The tour focused on Tokyo's modern sightseeing spots, with some shopping enjoyed along the way. The guests were very fond of animals, especially dogs, and purchased Hachiko-related goods and pet items. The tour ended just as we arrived in front of an animal cafe on Takeshita Street, and since the guests wanted to go inside, I explained how to return to the hotel and we parted ways there.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku~Shibuya167JPY
    Section 2TrainShibuya~Harajuku146JPY
    Total313JPY

    Hello, I’m Haruhiko Yokota, a certified tour guide based in Tokyo and a top-ranked guide registered with JGA Inc. Please feel free to call me Haru.
    I’ve been living in Tokyo for about 30 years and conducted close to 200 tours between 2023 and 2025. I’m very familiar with most major sightseeing spots in and around Tokyo, ranging from traditional temples and shrines to modern attractions. I also enjoy traveling throughout Japan, which has given me extensive knowledge of popular destinations across the country.
    I’m happy to customize your tour to match your interests and preferences. If you have any requests or questions, please don’t hesitate to ask. I’ll do my best to make your tour both enjoyable and memorable!

    Sep 29, 2026
    S77OGjoyh
    Excellent Guided walking tour of temple, shrine and outdoor food market Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day…

    Sep 16, 2026
    Kerry_M
    10/10 tour with Haruhiko Yokota
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We toured Tokyo with Haruhiko Yokota…

    Jul 13, 2026
    529gregj
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Haru is an excellent guide in Tokyo
    Haru (Haruhiko…

    Jul 12, 2026
    Felice R
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Touring gardens in Tokyo with the perfect guide , Haru…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tochomae Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Tochomae Station & Shibuya Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meeting place: Hotel Tokyo
    • 9:10 Tochomae Station
    • (Toei Subway Oedo Line)
    • 9:15 Arrive Shinjuku West Exit
    • 9:20 Shinjuku Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    •   Akasaka-mitsuke Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 9:45 Arrive Suehirocho Station
    • Akihabara Akihabara Electric Town
    • 10:30 Depart Akihabara Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Kayabacho Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Tozai Line)
    • 11:15 Arrive Otemachi Station
    • Tokyo Imperial Palace Plaza
    • Nijubashi Bridge
    • Inside Tokyo Station
    • 12:00 Depart Tokyo Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • Kasumigaseki Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 12:45 Arrive Omotesando Station
    • Harajuku Omotesando
    • Meiji Shrine
    • Takeshita Street
    • 13:45 Depart Harajuku Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 14:00 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • 14:30 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 15:00 Arrive Shinjuku Station
    • Shinjuku Kabukicho
    • Omoide Yokocho
    • Shinjuku West Exit Station
    • (Toei Subway Oedo Line)
    • 15:30 Tochomae Station
    • Disband: Tochomae Station

    Title: What Can You See on a Private One-Day Walking Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was a visitor from Oceania, visiting Japan for the first time. They had arrived a couple of days earlier. The day before, they had strolled around the Shinjuku area, and in the evening enjoyed dinner at a restaurant on the top floor of their hotel while taking in the night view of Tokyo. The main purpose of this trip to Japan was a 12-day cruise around Japan, starting the following day. Today, since one member of the group had sprained an ankle the previous night and stayed at the hotel, the tour proceeded with the other guest only. Although advanced in years, the guest walked around energetically throughout the day. There was a request to "visit as many places as possible, skipping lunch," along with a mention of a strong interest in architecture. It was a clear, sunny day for the tour. In the Akihabara electronics district, since a family member of the guest was a fan of Japanese anime, we walked around while taking photos of figures. There was a question about maid cafés: "What kind of place is this?" At the Imperial Palace, after walking a full loop of the East Gardens, we went to the Nijubashi Bridge. There were questions such as "Why did a castle site become the Imperial Palace?" and "What was the Edo period like?" There were also questions like "Does the Emperor really live inside here?" and "Does the Emperor hold political influence?" There was also a question: "Why did Tokyo become the capital of Japan?" We observed the Marunouchi South Exit of Tokyo Station and the interior of the Tokyo Station Hotel. There was a question, "Is this an Art Deco style building?" We strolled from Omotesando Station along Harajuku-dori. The guest commented, "There are many interesting buildings here. Very intriguing." At Meiji Shrine, there were questions such as "What is the purpose of the torii gate?" and "What kind of religion is Shinto? How is Buddhism different from Shinto?" Within the shrine grounds we came across a wedding procession and took photos. We moved to Shibuya. At the scramble crossing, there were comments such as "Why are there so many people here?" and "It seems there are many travelers?" We took a commemorative photo in front of the Hachiko statue. We strolled around the East Exit of Shinjuku. The guest commented, "This doesn't look like a Japanese town." There were comments such as "The city is so clean. There's no litter on the ground," "There are no trash bins on the streets," "On the subway, everyone lines up quietly and politely at the doors," and "The public restrooms are clean and pleasant." Being quite tall, the guest also mentioned, "While traveling on the subway, I need to watch out for ceiling heights in some places." I saw the guest off at Tochomae Station, where we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTochomae Station~Shinjuku West Exit Station900JPY
    Section 2SubwayShinjuku Station~Suehirocho Station0JPY
    Section 3SubwayAkihabara Station~Otemachi Station0JPY
    Section 4SubwayTokyo Station~Omotesando Station0JPY
    Section 5TrainHarajuku Station~Shibuya Station146JPY
    Section 6TrainShibuya Station~Shinjuku Station167JPY
    Section 7SubwayShinjuku West Exit Station~Tochomae Station0JPY
    Total1,213JPY

    Guiding career:
    Guide work started in July 2022. A guide focused on FIT compliance.
    FY2022 results: 17 cases, FY2023 results: 97
    Destinations: Various places in Tokyo, Hakone, Kamakura and Nikko
    As a recent group travel record, in October 2023, we have a track record of guiding a group of 33 people from Singapore to Narita Airport transfer plus sightseeing in Tokyo.
    Self-introduction:
    In the past, I was stationed in Canada, the United States, and Mexico as an expatriate of a Japanese bank for over 11 years.
    Since I have been mainly involved in the financing business in the United States for a long time, I think I am able to provide interpretation and translation services related to business and finance.
    I am a certified CPA in the United States.
    In addition, for three years from April 2016, I will be engaged in Japanese-English translation work (part-time), and I can also handle translation work.
    Although I don’t have a qualification in Spanish, but I think I can handle day to day conversation in Spanish without any problems.
    My hobby is trekking and from time to time, take a walk around mountains near Tokyo like Mt. Takao, Tanzawa, etc. I think it is possible to provide tourist information here as well.
    Since April 2015, I have been working as a Tokyo Metropolitan Tourism Volunteer and Tokyo Metropolitan Disaster Prevention Volunteer.
    One more, I have a separate house near Asuka Village, Nara prefecture, and I stay there for a total of about 30 days every year and have been enjoying sightseeing personally in the vicinity. Therefore, I think in the Kansai region, especially in Nara, Asuka, Yoshino, Koyasan, Kumano Kodo, etc., where I think I will be able to tour guide with confidence.

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